Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. These cells can invade and damage surrounding tissues and organs. Cancer can arise in various parts of the body and is often classified by the type of cell.
Cancer can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, including exposure to carcinogens, infections, and inherited mutations. Recently, news emerged that cancer-causing elements were found in cakes from Karnataka. Karnataka government issued a warning after carcinogenic substances were detected in 12 out of 235 cake samples tested throughout the state.
A senior government official with his discussion with Hindustan Times said, “We found harmful, cancer-causing substances in some of the cake samples we tested.” He explained that these additives are tightly controlled by the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 and other food safety rules from 2011.The official further warned that bakeries must immediately comply with safety standards or face stringent action.Reports indicate that cakes from bakeries in Bengaluru were tested, revealing the presence of potentially harmful substances. In response, Food Safety Commissioner Srinivas K warned bakeries statewide to avoid using unsafe chemicals and additives in their products.The Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department previously stated that out of 235 cake samples tested, “12 were found to contain artificial colors like Allura Red, Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R, Tartrazine, and Carmoisine.” These ingredients were present in amounts that exceeded safety limits, according to the department.
Hindustan Times reported that “these chemicals, commonly used to make cakes like red velvet and black forest look more appealing, have been linked to cancer and other serious health issues. Using too many of these additives could also harm mental and physical health.”
After the tests, the Karnataka government reportedly directed bakeries to follow safety standards and avoid using artificial colors like Allura Red, Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R, Tartrazine, and Carmoisine, among others.
According to The Hindu, State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated that bakeries and other establishments found to have harmful coloring agents in their samples were warned to adhere to food safety and quality standards. He said that using these additives is banned under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 and the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products, Standards and Food Additives) Regulations of 2011 because they can seriously harm consumers’ health.
The minister also mentioned that strict action will be taken against anyone who does not follow these rules.